Starboard Carve 121 Wood, Windsurfing Journal Test Special, 2010

On the beach: The Carve was, rather unusual, released in May 2010 (and got tested by us straightaway) and rather unusual as well, it wasn't given a clear designated year in which it was released. This makes it current and it should stay current throughout 2011. After the Carve and S-type lines merged in 2008 many riders weren't happy with this change and so Starboard issued the successful freeride range again after some hesitation. Three boards, 121, 131 and 141 are built in two constructions; wood (tested) and Tufskin. What stands out most are the tail cut-outs and the characteristic dome deck on the back of the board. The V-rocker is more emphasized at the back than at the front, and is strongest around the front straps, where it decreases again towards the fin box. The Carve comes with a 40CM long G10 fin.

On the water: You'll feel right at home on the Carve as there is no "period of adjustment". It's stable in the water and releases quick and easy into planing. Its acceleration is constant and evenly distributed without getting the most of the rider. This way, a rider has enough time to get in the straps and adopt a secure stance. Once it glides the typical Starboard feeling sets in. The board stays composed regardless of the conditions and even the hardest chop doesn't faze the Carve. It just glides along, making it a great companion for both intermediate and advanced riders. With more wind the Carve will accelerate to higher speeds, basically delivering the performance the rider is dialling into to. But in comparison to the Futura, it doesn't take off, meaning that there will always be enough contact with the surface to guarantee great handling and control. The other side of the coin is that the Futura will overtake it on a long rake. When turning, the Carve is a do-it-all, although it prefers moderate turns as opposed to tight turns with heavy rail pressure. When gybing the Carve there isn't a whole lot you can do wrong and because of its great planing characteristics, less experienced riders will see their gybe through to the end, fast and planing.